1 For the sons of Korah, a psalm, a song. His foundation [is] in the mountains of holiness.
2 Jehovah loveth the gates of Zion more than all the tabernacles of Jacob.
3 Glorious things [are] spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.
4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those that know me. Behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Cush: this [man] was born there.
5 And of Zion it shall be said, [This] man, and [that] man was born in her: and himself the Most High will establish her.
6 Jehovah will count, in inscribing the peoples, This [man] was born there. Selah.
7 And singers like pipers (or dancers) [shall say], All my springs [are] in thee.
Notes on Psalm 87
This is “For the sons of Korah, a psalm, a song.” As Christ the Lord is the sole key to the preceding psalms, which bring together Israel poor and needy looking to Him, and all nations coming to worship before Him, so it explains the divine spring of Israel’s patriotism. For all others it is self, the first man. Mere justice might and must have cut all down: grace counts that This man was born (not crucified!) there. But grace indeed can recall many an elder that obtained a good report through faith. Zion is Jehovah’s foundation, He loves its very gates. In vain do the seats of the world’s power, wisdom, and wealth, exalt themselves.